Every year, an estimate of 6 to 8 million dogs and cats in the United States are taken into a local animal shelter and cared for until they find a permanent home. On the contrary, approximately three to four million dogs and cats are euthanized, permitted death, each year. The city council of Texarkana, Texas, is considering establishing a no kill animal shelter in order to minimize these deaths.

“I think the no kill shelter is good for the community,” junior Tristen Collins said. “It’s great that they are not killing the animals anymore.”

This new addition to society has brought a positive

outcome to those who have supported the no kill policy. The idea of saving one more animal’s life has changed many people’s views on euthanasia.

“I’ve always thought it was wrong to kill animals just because they don’t have a home,” freshman Hutch Tidwell said. “I think the no kill shelter is a good idea.”

Overpopulation is an issue that might occur because of the no kill policy. Animals without a home will likely have nowhere to remain because of the large amount of animals saved.

“I think it’s more humane to euthanize the animals,” junior Katherine Doan said. “It’s expensive to keep up with all of the animals that do not have a home.”

Many hope the no-kill policy will spread to other shelters.

“Having this will benefit our society,” Tidwell said. “It will help us grow as people.”